The 33rd Degree of Free Masonry is an honorary degree conferred by the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite upon a select few members who have demonstrated exemplary service both to their individual lodges and to the fraternity as a whole. It is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a Mason, and its recipients are some of the most famous and influential people in the world.
Famous 33rd Degree Masons include many influential figures such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Winston Churchill, John D. Rockefeller, J.P. Morgan, Harry S. Truman, and several U.S. Presidents. Additionally, other notable 33rd degree Masons include several astronauts, writers, entertainers and businessmen from around the world.
Notable 33rd Degree Masons
The 33rd degree of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry is an honorary degree bestowed upon select members in recognition of their dedication and hard work. Masons who have been awarded this degree are among some of the most influential and powerful people in the world. Here is a look at some of the most notable 33rd Degree Masons:
• George Washington – A Founding Father and first President of the United States, George Washington was a 33rd Degree Mason. He was initiated into Freemasonry in 1752.
• Winston Churchill – The Prime Minister of Great Britain during World War II, Churchill was a member of the Craft for more than 50 years before being made a 33rd Degree Mason in 1945.
• Benjamin Franklin – One of America’s Founding Fathers, Franklin was a member and Grand Master of his lodge in Philadelphia. He received his 33rd degree in 1775.
• J Edgar Hoover – The first Director of the FBI, Hoover was initiated into Freemasonry in 1920 and became a 33rd Degree Mason in 1933.
• Harry S Truman – The 33rd President of the United States, Truman received his 32nd degree from the Scottish Rite’s Valley Of Kansas City on April 9th, 1945. He became a 33rd Degree Mason shortly after taking office as President.
• Buzz Aldrin – The second man to walk on the moon, Aldrin is one of only two astronauts who are both members and recipients of the 33rd degree. He was initiated into Freemasonry in 1974.
• Gerald Ford – The 38th President of the United States, Ford became a 32nd degree Mason shortly before becoming Vice President under Richard Nixon. He received his 33rd degree from Supreme Council on September 30th 1975.
• John Wayne – One of Hollywood’s most iconic stars, Wayne had been an active Freemason since 1970. He was made a 32nd degree Mason by Supreme Council on April 5th 1973 and promoted to 33rd degree later that year.
Famous 33rd Degree Masons
Masonry is one of the oldest and most well-known fraternal organizations in the world. The 33rd degree of Freemasonry is the highest degree a Mason can attain. Below are some of the most famous 33rd Degree Masons:
• George Washington: The first President of the United States was a Mason, and he was also made a 33rd Degree Mason in 1788.
• Benjamin Franklin: Another Founding Father who was a Mason, Franklin was also made a 33rd Degree Mason in 1734.
• Mark Twain: The American author and humorist, Mark Twain, was initiated into Freemasonry in 1861 and attained his 33rd degree in 1901.
• Winston Churchill: Churchill was initiated into Freemasonry in 1901 and attained his 33rd degree in 1902.
• John Wayne: The beloved actor was initiated into Freemasonry in 1970 and attained his 33rd degree in 1971.
• Harry Houdini: The renowned magician was initiated into Freemasonry in 1902 and attained his 33rd degree shortly before his death in 1926.
• Buzz Aldrin: The astronaut was initiated into Freemasonry in 1991 and attained his 33rd degree shortly thereafter.
These are just some of the most famous 33rd Degree Masons throughout history. There are many more who have achieved this high honor within the Masonic fraternity, including many world leaders, scientists, artists, musicians, athletes, businessmen, inventors, writers, entertainers and more!
History of 33rd Degree Masons
The 33rd degree is an honorary degree awarded to Freemasons who have demonstrated exemplary service and performance within their Masonic lodge. It is the highest degree available within the Scottish Rite, and is held by some of the most influential figures in Freemasonry. The history of this degree is long and storied, and it has been awarded to some of the most prominent figures throughout history. Here are a few highlights from its illustrious past:
• The 33rd degree was first awarded in 1801, by the Supreme Council of France. This council was created by Napoleon Bonaparte, who himself was a Freemason.
• Since then, the 33rd degree has been awarded to hundreds of distinguished Masons from all over the world. Among these are US Presidents such as Franklin D Roosevelt and Harry S Truman; British Prime Ministers such as Winston Churchill and Harold Wilson; entertainers such as Elvis Presley; philosophers such as Albert Einstein; scientists such as J Robert Oppenheimer; military leaders such as General Douglas MacArthur; authors such as Mark Twain; financiers such as JP Morgan; industrialists such as Henry Ford; theologians such as Martin Luther King Jr.; and even athletes like Arnold Palmer.
• Today, 33rd Degree Masons are still recognized for their exceptional contributions to Freemasonry. In addition to receiving recognition from their peers, they are also eligible for special honors from Grand Lodges across the world. These honors often include medals or other awards that commemorate their service to Freemasonry.
• In addition to providing recognition for outstanding individuals, the 33rd Degree also serves an important role in education and leadership development within Masonry. Through its various programs, it provides training opportunities for members of all levels of experience – from novice Masons to experienced Masters – so that they can better serve their lodges and communities.
• Therefore, the 33rd Degree serves an important role in unifying Freemasonry worldwide. Its members come from countries around the globe, creating a global network that allows them to collaborate on projects that benefit Masonry everywhere.
Origin of the 33rd Degree
The 33rd degree is an honorary degree awarded to members of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. It is the highest degree a Mason can achieve and is usually only bestowed upon those who have made exceptional contributions to the organization. The degree was established in 1801 in Charleston, South Carolina and has since become an important part of Masonic tradition.
The origins of this degree are based on the teachings and principles of ancient mystery schools, which were believed to be secret societies that taught spiritual truths and hidden knowledge. These schools were thought to have been started by priests and scholars in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Many believe that these mystery schools served as a platform for the transmission of spiritual wisdom and teachings throughout history.
The 33rd degree is often referred to as the “Supreme Council” or “Supreme Council 33°” within Freemasonry. It signifies a Mason’s commitment to uphold the ideals and principles of Freemasonry, such as brotherly love, relief, truth, and justice. The degree also serves as a reminder that each Mason should strive to live up to their highest potential.
Meaning of the 33rd Degree
The meaning behind the 33rd degree goes beyond simple honor or recognition; it represents a spiritual journey for its recipients. For many Masons, receiving the 33rd degree is seen as a way to deepen their understanding of Freemasonry and its teachings. The number 3 is symbolic in Freemasonry; it represents knowledge, understanding, wisdom, truth, harmony, justice, charity and other principles that are essential for living an honorable life. The number 3 also appears throughout many religious texts and traditions from around the world.
In addition to its spiritual significance, receiving the 33rd degree also allows Masons access to exclusive events such as lectures by esteemed Masonic scholars or gatherings with fellow Masons from around the world. For many Masons it is seen as an opportunity for growth on both personal and professional levels; through networking with other like-minded individuals one can gain invaluable insights into both Freemasonry itself as well as life in general.
At its core, however, receiving this honorary degree symbolizes a commitment from each individual Mason to strive towards perfection – both within themselves as well as within their craft – by embracing all that Freemasonry stands for:
Obligations
The 33rd degree of Freemasonry is one of the highest honors a Mason can achieve in their lifetime. This Degree emphasizes loyalty and responsibility to the fraternity, as well as the commitment to uphold its values. As part of being a 33rd degree Mason, members must take an oath that they will always be faithful and loyal to Masonic ideals and tenets. They must also promise to abide by its laws, rules and regulations. Additionally, it is expected that they will take on any duties or responsibilities assigned to them by their brothers or superiors within the organization.
Symbols
33rd Degree Freemasonry is filled with symbols that are important to understanding the culture and traditions of the fraternity. These symbols often have multiple meanings, which can make them difficult for outsiders to understand. The most common symbols associated with this Degree include a double-headed eagle, which represents strength and authority; a compass and square, which represent knowledge and wisdom; a sunburst, which symbolizes illumination; an arm clasping a sword, which symbolizes justice; and a pyramid, which represents stability.
Traditions
The 33rd Degree of Freemasonry has many traditions that are important for members to observe and follow. Some of these include rituals such as initiation ceremonies for new members; dress codes for meetings; prayer services before meals; secret handshakes used for recognition within the organization; and special ceremonies honoring senior members who have served for many years. Additionally, 33rd Degree Masons participate in charitable activities in their local communities such as food drives, clothing drives, blood drives, fund raisers for local charities, etc. These activities help promote the values of Freemasonry within their respective communities.
The Benefits of Being a 33rd Degree Mason
Reaching the highest degree in Freemasonry, the 33rd Degree, is a major accomplishment that brings many unique benefits. As a 33rd Degree Mason, you’ll have access to exclusive clubs and activities, as well as lifelong learning opportunities. Here are some of the advantages of becoming a 33rd Degree Mason:
- Exclusive Social Clubs: As a 33rd Degree Mason, you will gain access to exclusive social clubs and fraternal gatherings where you can network with other Masons and establish new connections.
- Advanced Leadership Training: You will receive advanced leadership training that will help you prepare for higher-level roles in Freemasonry. This type of training can be invaluable for those looking to advance their career or pursue different paths.
- Lifelong Learning Opportunities: As a 33rd Degree Mason, you will have access to lifelong learning opportunities that can help you stay up-to-date on everything from Masonic history to current events. These types of classes are not available to non-Masons.
- Exclusive Opportunities: Becoming a 33rd Degree Mason can open up exclusive opportunities such as participating in special ceremonies and rituals, attending international conferences, or even becoming an ambassador for Freemasonry.
- Financial Benefits: Reaching the highest level of Masonic membership has financial benefits as well. Most lodges provide financial assistance to members who reach this rank, and there are also special loans available for those who need them.
By becoming a 33rd Degree Mason, you will join an elite group of individuals who have achieved the highest level of membership in Freemasonry. This honor comes with many unique benefits that can help you succeed in life and become an even better leader than before. With its exclusive clubs and activities and lifelong learning opportunities, being a 33rd Degree Mason is an accomplishment that should not be taken lightly.
Freemasonry
Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that has its roots in the Middle Ages. It is based on the ideals of brotherhood, charity, and truth. Freemasonry has existed in various forms since the late 17th century, when the first Grand Lodge was formed in England. The origins of Freemasonry are shrouded in mystery and speculation. It is thought to have originated from a variety of sources including ancient religious organizations, guilds of stonemasons, and military lodges.
Symbols and Rituals
Freemasons use a variety of symbols and rituals to express their beliefs. These symbols include a square and compass, an all-seeing eye, a single point within a circle, and an inverted five-pointed star known as the pentagram. In addition to these symbols, there are numerous other symbols associated with Freemasonry such as suns, moons, stars, skulls, and crosses. The rituals used by Freemasons vary from lodge to lodge but typically involve opening and closing ceremonies that involve prayers or readings from religious texts.
Royal Arch Masonry
Royal Arch Masonry is a branch of Freemasonry that follows its own set of beliefs and practices. It was established in 1798 as an extension of the Grand Lodge system. Royal Arch Masons practice seven degrees: Mark Master Mason (MMM), Past Master (PM), Most Excellent Master (MEM), Royal Arch Mason (RAM), Select Master (SM), Super Excellent Master (SEM) and Royal Ark Mariner (RAM). Each degree has its own set of rituals which must be memorized by members before they can move onto the next one.
The main focus of Royal Arch Masonry is on self-improvement through study and contemplation of spiritual matters. Members are encouraged to explore their spiritual side through study of the Bible or other religious texts as well as philosophical works such as those written by Plato or Aristotle.
33rd Degree
The 33rd Degree is the highest degree conferred upon members of Freemasonry who have demonstrated exceptional service to the organization over many years. This degree can only be granted after extensive study and achievement in both Craft Masonry and Royal Arch Masonry. Those who receive this degree are given additional privileges within the organization such as access to exclusive meetings and events with other 33rd Degree Masons from around the world.
Final Words On Famous 33Rd Degree Masons
The 33rd degree of Freemasonry stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the many members of the Freemason order. These individuals have dedicated their lives to serving their communities and advancing the ideals of truth, justice and brotherhood. The 33rd degree is a special honor given to those who have made great contributions to the organization, and is a symbol of the high regard that Freemasons have for their most accomplished members.
The 33rd degree also provides further opportunities for its recipients to continue learning and serving their brothers in the craft. In addition to being able to access exclusive meetings, councils, journals, magazines, and other resources available only to those with this distinction, members of this degree are also eligible for leadership roles within their lodge or Grand Lodge.
Therefore, the 33rd Degree Mason stands as a beacon of hope for all those seeking knowledge or fellowship within Freemasonry. By exemplifying the highest level of commitment to service and brotherhood, these members continue to provide an example for all who aspire to join them in the noble fraternity.
In reflection, Famous 33Rd Degree Masons serve as role models for all Masons throughout the world. Through their commitment to service and brotherhood they provide an example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. They also represent a higher level of understanding that can be attained through dedicated study and participation in Masonic activities. Through their efforts they provide an invaluable contribution not only to Freemasonry but also society at large.
The 33rd degree of Freemasonry stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the many members of the Freemason order. These individuals have dedicated their lives to serving their communities and advancing the ideals of truth, justice and brotherhood. The 33rd degree is a special honor given to those who have made great contributions to the organization, and is a symbol of the high regard that Freemasons have for their most accomplished members.